News: Samardzija is the likely Opening Day starter for the White Sox due to Chris Sale's foot injury, Bruce Levin of 670thescore.com says.

Impact: Samardzija will likely make his White Sox debut a little earlier than planned. Sale will have to take three weeks off, then begin his baseball activities for the season, pushing his Opening Day availability into heavy doubt.

Impact: Set to serve as the second starter for the White Sox behind Chris Sale, Samardzija is in line for a strong fantasy season on a White Sox squad that should offer significantly better run support than what Samardzija received the last time he played for a Chicago team. His ability to direct hits to the ground should aid him in the White Sox's hitter-friendly park.

StatsLLC: Jan 16 / 12:00a ET

News: The White Sox have agreed to a $9.8 million, one-year contract with pitcher Jeff Samardzija and avoided arbitration.

Impact: Samardzija, who turns 30 on Jan. 23, can become a free agent after this season.

Impact: Samardzija will return to Chicago after a half-season stint with the A's, forming one of the best 1-2 punches in baseball alongside Chris Sale. The right-hander posted a 2.99 ERA and 1.07 WHIP in 33 starts last season en route to his first All-Star selection. His 46.2 percent career groundball rate bodes well for his chances of maintaining success in the hitter-friendly confines of U.S. Cellular Field.

StatsLLC: Dec 9 / 12:00a ET

News: The Oakland Athletics traded an All-Star for the third time in less than two weeks, sending Samardzija to the Chicago White Sox on Tuesday. Right-hander Michael Ynoa also was dealt to Chicago. Oakland obtained right-hander Chris Bassitt, catcher Josh Phegley and infielders Rangel Ravelo and Marcus Semien.

Impact: An All-America wide receiver at Notre Dame, Samardzija was 31-42 with a 3.97 ERA for the Chicago Cubs from 2008 until July 5, when he was traded to the A's. He went 5-6 with a 3.14 ERA for Oakland. Samardzija, who turns 30 on Jan. 23, made $5,345,000 this year and is eligible for salary arbitration. He can become a free agent after the 2015 season.